INTERVIEW: I've got to repay him

Leicester City defender James Pearson spoke to us about his extended loan deal shortly after training on Tuesday afternoon.

“This is a move I’m really looking forward to,” he admitted. “It’s a good club and it should be a good experience.

“Leicester have told me to be rough and ready for a battle. It’s a chance for me to get some really good experience in what is a tough league with some very good players. It’s all about trying to impress and about helping Carlisle to stay in this division.

“It’s my first loan deal so it’s good that it’s until the end of the season. I’m looking to grab some experience and to eventually get into a first team on a regular basis. I just want to kick on with my career. My contract is up at the end of the season so there’s an aspect of showing Leicester what I can do as well. If I can’t get a new deal there then I need to be looking elsewhere, and this kind of thing can only help.”

“My career path does look a bit strange,” he told us. “It’s been a long ride to bring me to being sat here now. Looking back, the spell at Hartpury college and the university was massive for me. They helped me out a lot. I then got the chance at Leicester and hopefully I can now take my chance here and crack on.

“I’m 21 now and, if you look at some of the players playing at the top level, they’re the same age or even younger. I’m looking forward to this because it’s a chance to get some football and get on track.

“I’m a hard working player who does everything I can for the team. I like to defend but hopefully I’ll pop up at the other end with some crosses and deliveries. I’ve played centre half before but I think I’m a full back. That’s my natural position and it’s probably my favourite position as well. However, I’m happy to fill in wherever I’m needed.”

“If I’m being honest I’d have to admit there are a few nerves at the moment,” he told us. “I’m looking forward to going back to my home town [Sheffield] on Wednesday but I think there will always be nerves when you come to a new place. All you can do is use them positively.

“Kav has spoken to me and he’s told me to be solid, aggressive and to make sure I enjoy myself. He wants me to settle down and show everyone what I can do. I’ve trained with the lads already and they are a good group. Technically there are some very good players so hopefully we can all come together and get some results.”

“Going to Sheffield United is a good way to start,” he concluded. “It’s a massive game against a good club and hopefully we can stop the roll they are on at the moment. For me, getting picked is my main objective but I’ll take whatever comes my way. I just want to be here to help the team as much as I can. The manager has put a bit of faith in me and, as far as I’m concerned, I have got to repay him.”

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